US soap veteran Jay Pickett has died at the age of 60, after reportedly collapsing on the set of his latest movie.

Pickett, who was known for his roles in shows such as General Hospital, was shooting his new film Treasure Valley in Idaho when he was said to have suffered from a heart attack while prepping for a scene.

Writing on Facebook, director Travis Mills said: “Many of you have already heard about the tragedy that happened two days ago.

“Jay Pickett, our leading man, writer, producer and creator of this movie, passed away suddenly while we were on location preparing to film a scene.

“There is no official explanation for the cause of his death but it appears to have been a heart attack.

“Everyone present tried as hard as they could to keep him alive. Our hearts are broken and we grieve for his family who are so devastated by this shocking tragedy.”

Mills went on to say: “Jay was an incredible man. He was kind, sweet, and generous.

“He was one of the best actors I ever worked with and it was an honour to collaborate with him. Everyone who met him, even for the briefest moment, could feel his warmth, his wonderful spirit.

“It is difficult to find the words right now to say more. His closest friends have said that he was very happy making Treasure Valley and my hope is that he truly was.

“He was doing what he loved: acting, riding horses, making movies. And he was magnificent.”

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As well as appearing in General Hospital, Pickett was also known for soaps Days Of Our Lives and Port Charles, as well as films such as Abandoned, Soda Springs and Rumpelstiltskin.

Jim Heffel, Pickett’s co-star and friend, also paid tribute on Facebook, saying: “Yesterday I lost a good friend and the world lost a great person. Jay Pickett decided to ride off into the Heavens.

“Jay died sitting on a horse ready to rope a steer in the movie Treasure Valley in Idaho. The way of a true cowboy.

“Jay wrote the story and starred in it. He was also co-producer with myself and Vernon Walker. He will be truly missed. Ride like the wind partner.”

Pickett is survived by his wife Elena and their three children.

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